Navigating car rental policies can often feel like deciphering a foreign language, especially when you’re eager to start your Myrtle Beach vacation or business trip right after landing at Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience picking up your rental car at Myrtle Beach Airport, it’s crucial to understand the renter requirements and payment policies. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from age restrictions to accepted forms of payment, so you can get behind the wheel and on your way without any unexpected delays.
Understanding Renter Requirements at Myrtle Beach Airport
Like most car rental agencies, those at Myrtle Beach Airport have specific requirements renters must meet. These are in place to ensure the safety and security of both the renters and the rental vehicles.
Age Restrictions and Underage Surcharges
The minimum age to rent a car at Myrtle Beach Airport is 21 years old. This is a standard policy across many rental companies. If you are between the ages of 21 and 24, you are still eligible to rent, but you will be considered an underage driver and subject to a daily surcharge. This surcharge is typically around $25 per day.
For young renters, vehicle class availability might be limited. Generally, renters aged 21-24 can choose from a range of vehicles, including:
- Economy through Full Size cars
- Cargo and Minivans
- Pickups
- Compact, Small, and Standard SUVs (with seating up to 5 passengers)
It’s important to note that learner’s permits or instructional permits are not accepted for car rentals at Myrtle Beach Airport. Every renter and any additional drivers must possess a valid driver’s license.
Driver’s License and Identification
A valid driver’s license is mandatory for all renters and additional drivers. The name and address on your driver’s license should ideally match your current home address. However, active duty military personnel are often exempt from the address matching requirement with proper military ID.
Alt text: Close-up of a driver’s license, emphasizing the photo and personal information sections, relevant to car rental identification requirements.
Debit Card Usage at Myrtle Beach Airport Car Rentals
Using a debit card to rent a car can sometimes be more complex than using a credit card. At Myrtle Beach Airport rental locations, debit cards are generally accepted at the time of rental, but often with a condition: you must present a ticketed return travel itinerary. This means if you’re planning to use a debit card, ensure you have your flight or travel confirmation readily available.
When using a debit card for your Myrtle Beach Airport Car Rental, be aware of the following:
- Funds will be held: The estimated total for the rental, plus any deposit, will be deducted from your account balance.
- Overdraft fees: You are responsible for any overdraft fees that may occur if your account balance is insufficient.
- Additional drivers: Outside of your spouse or domestic partner, adding other drivers may have restrictions when using a debit card. It’s best to confirm this directly with the rental agency.
It is highly recommended to review the specific “Forms of Payment” policy of your chosen rental company at Myrtle Beach Airport for complete details on debit card usage.
Forms of Payment Accepted at Myrtle Beach Airport Car Rental
Knowing the accepted forms of payment will streamline your car rental process at Myrtle Beach Airport. Major credit cards are widely accepted, providing a straightforward transaction.
Credit Cards
The following major credit cards are typically accepted for car rentals at Myrtle Beach Airport:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
Using a credit card generally simplifies the rental process. The estimated total for your rental will be charged to your card at the time of reservation or pickup. If any modifications are made to your rental agreement, the amount charged to your card will be adjusted accordingly.
Debit Cards
As mentioned earlier, debit cards are accepted at Myrtle Beach Airport car rental locations, often with the requirement of a ticketed return travel itinerary. It’s crucial to ensure your debit card has sufficient funds to cover the rental cost and any required deposit.
Alt text: A neatly stacked set of credit and debit cards, symbolizing payment methods accepted for car rentals, emphasizing convenience and financial transactions.
Deposit Amounts for Myrtle Beach Airport Car Rentals
Rental companies at Myrtle Beach Airport require a deposit to cover potential additional charges that may occur during your rental period. The standard deposit amount is generally $400. However, this deposit can increase to $850 for certain vehicle classes, including:
- Performance Sport cars
- Full Size Luxury SUVs
- Electric Luxury SUVs
- Full Size Elite Electric Sedans
- Midsize Sport Luxury Sedans
- Full Size Luxury Sedans
- Premium Luxury Sedans
- Electric Luxury Sedans
- Premium Luxury SUVs
- Extended Luxury SUVs
- Limo Vans
- Corvettes
This deposit is held and will be released back to you after the vehicle is returned in good condition. The deposit amount must be paid using an accepted form of payment listed above (credit or debit card). Cash, money orders, and prepaid cards are generally not accepted for deposits at the time of rental.
Any additional amounts owed at the end of your rental, such as for extra mileage, fuel charges, or damages, may be deducted from your deposit. If not deducted from the deposit, these charges will be applied to the payment method you provided at the rental start, unless you provide an alternative accepted payment method.
Insurance Verification for Specific Vehicle Classes
For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary and who are interested in renting premium or luxury vehicles from Myrtle Beach Airport, insurance verification is often required. This typically includes providing evidence of a transferable auto collision, comprehensive, and liability policy. The vehicle classes that usually necessitate insurance verification include:
- Full Size Luxury Sedan
- Premium Luxury Sedan
- Midsize Sport Luxury Sedan
- Electric Luxury Sedan
- Premium Luxury SUV
- Extended Luxury SUV
- Electric Luxury SUV
- Limo Van
- Corvette
Check with your car rental provider at Myrtle Beach Airport to confirm if your chosen vehicle class requires insurance verification and what documentation is needed.
Finalizing Your Myrtle Beach Airport Car Rental
To summarize, renting a car at Myrtle Beach Airport involves understanding specific renter requirements and payment policies. Being prepared with the necessary documentation, understanding debit and credit card policies, and being aware of deposit amounts will ensure a quicker and smoother rental experience. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your chosen rental agency for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Enjoy your drive in Myrtle Beach!
